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Who can apply?

You. Probably. If you're over 18, haven't been declared bankrupt or registered for an Individual Voluntary Agreement in the last six years (or be in the process of doing so), and have a phone number and email address we can contact you with, we'd love to welcome you.

Account Fees

There is no cost for the first six months. After that you can avoid paying the £10 monthly account fee by:

paying at least £1,000 into the account every month

or maintaining an average monthly balance of £1,000

or also having a mortgage, credit card, Personal Loan, savings (except Regular Saver), First Directory or Home insurance with us.

Regular Saver Account

**£100 to say hello

If you open a 1st Account, switch your everyday banking to us using the Current Account Switch Service and pay in at least £1,000 within three months of opening the account, we'll top it up with £100 - it's the least we can do to welcome you on board...

This offer is limited to one payment per customer or joint account, and you'll get the money within 28 days of all criteria being met.

Sorry, we can only offer this to people who haven't previously held an account with us, and we reserve the right to refuse your application and extend or withdraw this offer at any time. Credit is subject to status.

***£100 to say goodbye

We're not just sure you'll love our service more than anyone else's - we're banking on it. If you don't like the way we do things after six months, we'll not only help you move banks - we'll give you £100 as a leaving present.

To qualify, you must have paid at least £1,000 a month into your account for six months and not have banked with us before, as well as switched to us initially using the Current Account Switch Service. You need to contact us to let us know you're unhappy within 12 months of opening your account, and you'll get the money within 28 days of the criteria being met. If you do decide to leave, all other products you hold with first direct will also need to be closed.

*first direct customers are more likely to recommend their bank than customers at any other major GB bank or building society. Source: GfK FRS, 6 months ending June 2016. Proportion of main current account holders answering 'Yes' to 'Have you recommended your main current account provider in the last 12 months'. Includes all major banks and building societies who have more than 100 customers.

If you can see any changes coming up that could affect your disposable income - for example, less money coming in due to extended leave or retirement or a change in your employment situation/working hours, or a rent/mortgage payment increase - please apply by telephone on 03 456 100 100.

If you're not happy with your account, you have a 14 day period after you receive your welcome pack to close your account. Please see the first direct Account Terms and Conditions for full details.

If you are an EU resident and want to apply for a current account please call on +44 113 2345678.